Florida teachers can carry guns in classrooms

Photo: Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Florida teachers are eligible to carry guns in classrooms after Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill on Wednesday, reports the AP.

Why it matters: The controversial bill follows the shooting at a Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018, expanding a previous program, and making teachers eligible regardless their roles within their schools. Democrats and teachers' unions have argued the measure will make schools more dangerous, per Tampa Bay Times. Meanwhile, Broward County — where the Parkland shooting occurred — rejected the program.

How it works:

Teachers voluntarily opt into the guardianship program, allowing school districts to approve school employees and teachers to carry guns.

The individuals must be approved by school districts.

Teachers must participate in police-like training.

Educators must also complete background checks and psychiatric evaluations.